.apk Files or Third-Party Applications on an Automotive Device

Your device is able to read .apk files, which are files that contain Android-based applications for use on Android-based mobile operating systems. Loading a third-party app to an Android device using one of these files is commonly known as "sideloading".

Although your device is capable of sideloading .apk files, Garmin does not offer support on the location, installation, or troubleshooting of these files and applications. If you decide to sideload an .apk file, it may or may not work correctly on the device. Garmin does not offer any suggestions on where to find these files and suggests that you only obtain these from trusted sources.

If the device is not working properly after an .apk file has been sideloaded to it, a factory data reset of the device can be completed to remove the files. Performing a factory data reset will reset the device to factory default settings and delete any saved waypoints, downloaded apps, music, photos, videos, and other data. A factory data reset will also remove profile information for the compatible devices.

Before performing a factory data reset, your tracks and waypoints can be synced to the Garmin Explore Library if the device is paired with the Tread® App. To pair with the Tread app Installing and Pairing the Tread App.

To Perform a Factory Data Reset:

1. Touch Apps
2. Touch Tools
3. Touch Settings
4. Touch Personal
5. Touch Device Reset
6. Touch Erase all data (factory reset)
7. Touch OK
8. Touch Reset Device
9. Touch Reset Device again

The device will restart and prompt you to set up the device again. Note that the device can take longer to start up for the first time after it has been reset in this fashion.